Doncaster builder to slug it out in boxing ring for charity

A builder set to swap bricks for boxing gloves is hoping to pack a real punch for charity when he steps into the ring next month.

Nick Werrett will join scores of other amateur fighters at a ‘white collar’ boxing spectacular, when a string of non-boxers will do battle in aid of Cancer Research UK.

The contest echoes cult 1990s movie Fight Club, starring Brad Pitt, where groups of men got together to fight recreationally.

However, unlike one of the most famous lines from that film – ‘the first rule of fight club is you do not talk about fight club’ – Nick has talked all about his forthcoming bout and admits he is nervous ahead of the contest at the Keepmoat Stadium on Saturday, March 28.

Nick said: “I was watching the boxing on television at the weekend and I started getting butterflies at the thought of what I was doing.

“It is quite daunting knowing you are going to be stepping into a ring and having a proper boxing match with someone.”

Nick, aged 32, is now on an eight-week training course ahead of the contest, organised by Ultra White Collar Boxing, picking up tips on everything from packing a punch, to ducking and weaving to stamina and fitness with regular training sessions at Doncaster Martial Arts Centre in Beckett Road.

He said: “It is the first time I have ever done anything like this.

“I think everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer and I have lost several members of my own family to the disease. I wanted to do something to help and also decided that I wanted to get into shape for the New Year so that’s why I decided to take the plunge and sign up.”

More than 600 people will watch Nick battle it out across three two-minute rounds as part of a full evening of amateur fights.

Nick, of Sutton Road, who is hoping to raise £1,000, said: “My wife Joanne thinks I am mad, but lots of my family and friends think it is great.

“I will come into the ring with my own entrance music and will have a fighter name on the night.”

And he is calling on readers to help him come up with the name which he will be able to carry into the ring.

He said: “The person who bids the most will be able to have the winning name,” he said.

To suggest names and sponsor Nick contact him on 07435 960898. Alternatively, you can donate by texting WERR82 followed by £2, £5, £10 to 70070 or visit https://www.justgiving.com/Nick-Werrett